About Pessaries

What is a pessary?

Pessary is a medical-grade silicone device that is inserted vaginally to help manage bothersome symptoms of prolapse and stress urinary incontinence

What does a pessary do?

• Repositions organs

• Alters proprioception

• Provides support along the urethra to help with incontinence

A well fitting pessary cannot be felt and does not cause any discomfort. It provides immediate symptom relief and is minimally invasive.

What is involved in a pelvic floor pessary fitting at In Form Physiotherapy?

The session includes a history of your symptoms, medical history and goals. If indicated, the benefits and risks of a pessary, the different types of pessaries and alternative treatment options to pessary use are discussed. The assessment includes an internal assessment where the therapist will take a few measurements and perform a speculum exam to inspect the integrity of the vaginal tissues. If indicated a trial of a pessary is done with the pessary they think is the best fit and most appropriate model. The therapist will educate the client on the insertion and removal of the pessary (if self-managing), cleaning and storing protocols, intercouse/mensturation, possible adverse effects, how to manage them and or seek medical attention.

The session may also include pelvic health education and exercise. 

The client can decide to discontinue at any point for any reason during a session.

Who is eligible for a pessary fitting?

• Any grade/type of pelvic organ prolapse with the presence of bothersome symptoms: 

  • Heaviness, pressure, bulging, difficulty voiding bladder/fully emptying, mental/emotional bother

• Stress urinary incontinence

• For those who elect not to undergo surgery for prolapse/incontinence

• For those who are not surgical candidates (comorbidities, age, etc.)

• For those awaiting surgery

• For those considering surgery but who are not yet done childbearing

• To rule out occult incontinence pre pelvic surgery

Side note: may be eligible for insurance coverage under medical item

Client must have a DR referral for a pessary which we provide, before booking a session